KIRKUS REVIEW

Barbara has built a mysterious box
in the backyard near the coop; what dangerous creature lurks within?

The Chicken Squad is on the case
(much to retired rescue dog J.J. Tully’s amusement). Dirt (the smart one),
Sugar (the know-it-all), Poppy (the boy), and Sweetie (well, she shows up)
decide to investigate the strange new box on stilts that Barbara has placed in
the backyard. With their spy kits (containing binoculars, mustaches, and
marshmallow belts), the chicks are ready for action. After three long minutes
of surveillance (that may have included a nap), Dirt, at least, has ruled out a
shark as a possibility for the backyard’s new dangerous denizen…Sugar’s not so
sure. After careful review of the evidence (and accidental poetry) they decide
it must be a rabbit…but the door has been left open! Rabbits can’t survive in
the wild! So despite the fact that Sugar’s compass is predicting scorching
weather (don’t ask), the Chicken Squad is ready to head into the wild to save
the maybe-bunny. Cronin continues her series of mystery misadventures following
the chicken siblings, while Gilpin takes over illustrating duties from Kevin
Cornell (and young fans might not notice the change). Many illustrations and
frequent word repetition (not to mention the giggle-inducing high jinks) make
this series a great choice for those new to chapters. Final art not seen.

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